Today, cameras are everywhere. In fact, you would probably be surprised by the number of video cameras that catch your commute on a daily basis. How easy is it to obtain a copy of this footage?
We have all seen them around: video cameras along highways, at red lights, toll plazas, and even on buses. There are many reasons why these cameras exist (e.g., law enforcement, monitoring traffic congestion, number plate recognition), understand that the entities which own the cameras are not in the business of finding and providing this footage to the general public, so the ease with which one can retrieve this kind of evidence generally depends on a number of factors.
Getting Traffic Camera Video
First thing you will want to take into consideration is the possible different sources of video. This greatly depends on where your accident occurred.- Were you at an intersection equipped with red light cameras?
- Were you on a highway or major thoroughfare?
- Were there any nearby businesses which may have outdoor surveillance cameras?
- If you are uncertain, look up the location on GoogleMaps >StreetView and consider all possibilities.
Traffic Cameras & Red Light Cameras
When it comes to highway traffic cameras and red light cameras, your chances of obtaining a copy of the video without the help of an attorney are very slim. You are most-likely going to be dealing with a number of public and private entities that have specific requirements when it comes to releasing video footage. Some highway traffic cameras are owned by TxDOT while others are owned by the toll authority. Click here for a map of State-owned traffic cameras.
There is no harm in asking for a copy of the video. Keep in mind that it is possible that your request will be denied because they are not obligated to do so, and because they do not want to put the man-hours into tracking down the relevant portion of video.
If you have an attorney, let them know of this potential piece of evidence as soon as possible. Your attorney can issue a subpoena seeking the release of the video footage, but it is important to act as soon as possible because these cameras often erase old data after a certain period of time.
Private Business Surveillance Cameras
If you think that your car accident was captured by a CCTV(Closed-Circuit Television) surveillance camera located on private property (e.g., Walmart, Grocery Store, Gas Station, etc.), you stand a better chance of finding someone who is willing to help. Private businesses also have no obligation to provide this footage to you without a subpoena, but a friendly request can go a long way.
Some businesses and larger stores have strict rules on how and when they share this video, and if you run into a roadblock, discuss your options with an experienced car accident lawyer.
Dash Cams & Other Sources
Most police cruisers are now equipped with dash cams, but personal dash cams have also become increasingly popular. Be sure to ask any witnesses to the accident if they had a dashboard camera recording. Many people have stumbled across footage of their accident uploaded to YouTube a few days after the incident.
If you believe the car crash was caught on a nearby police car’s dash cam, you may have to jump through a few hoops in order to obtain the video footage.
You will need the following:
- Officer(s) name
- Badge number(s)
- Incident report number (police on-site of the accident will have this information)
- Write a letter explaining your intent, and then send it to the related precinct
It is important to note that police dash cams and bus cameras are not always recording. Due to limited resources, it is not uncommon for these entities to record over older footage. This is why it is very important to act fast when attempting to obtain this vital evidence.
Contact Miller Weisbrod
If you were injured in a car crash, speak with a Dallas Car Accident Attorney for free. The attorneys at Miller Weisbrod are happy to speak to you about your potential case free of charge.
By hiring an attorney, you are ensuring that you have the best chance at a successful outcome. At Miller Weisbrod, our attorneys will make sure you are not taken advantage of, and will handle your claim from beginning to end. When it comes to car crashes, time is of the essence. Getting in touch with a good accident attorney from the beginning will go a long way in gathering relevant evidence, proving negligence, demonstrating the true value of your case, and winning compensation. Call us today at 1-888-987-0005 for your free consultation.
